This site is dedicated to Johann Pachelbel and his famous piece the Canon (or Kanon). It is a baroque piece of music which has been interpreted by many people and has become the basis of many modern songs. Quite often, it is found in movie themes, songs and commercials. Some people actually believe it is the root of all modern music (more or less, with a pinch of humour, of course :). The melody of the Canon is easily recognizable, but the listener might not know the name of the composition or its composer. It is very popular for weddings, especially in the USA.

Johann Pachelbel lived from 1653-1706. In 1671, at the age of 18, he moved to Vienna (Austria) where he became a student. In 1692 he moved to Nuremburg where he lived until his death in 1706. The Canon was written around 1680 and it is Mr. Pachelbel’s most famous piece. The original was written for three violins with a bass accompaniment and a gigue.

What does the word “Canon” mean then? Well, it is certainly not a “cannon” (the large gun), as is often suggested. A Canon (or Kanon) is a piece of music characterized by imitation and repetition. First one instrument or vocal introduces a part of the melody. Then, after a number of tones, a second instrument or vocal starts to repeat, or imitate, the first melody, playing the exact same tones, but with a time delay. More instruments or vocals may then be added, depending on the composer’s wishes.

Canon's popularity boosted after appearing in the 1980's movie Ordinary People. It is even found as ring tones in wireless telephones.

Pachelbel's Canon has a very special meaning for me personally. I listen to it when I'm happy and when I feel sad. It touches my soul and sends shivers down my spine. And it always does, even though I have listened to it thousands of times. From all the encouraging emails I receive as a result of this site, these feelings seem to be shared by many. .

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